Nipple Prominence

In terms of cosmetics and function, nipples are potentially the most important part of the breast. For both men and women, prominent nipples can lead to self-consciousness and reluctance to let people see you unclothed. Fortunately, surgical correction can help make the nipples and areolae more aesthetically pleasing, restoring confidence and self-assurance that can significantly increase your quality of life.

Please contact us online or call our Chicago or Arlington Heights plastic surgery offices for more information on nipple reduction surgery for prominent nipples, including prices.

About Nipple Reduction Surgery

The prominence of the nipples is related to many important factors, including:

Heredity — If your family has a history of large, puffy nipples, you are likely to have them as well.

Hormonal imbalance — Sex hormones, especially estrogen, have a significant effect on the development and condition of breast tissue, including the nipples.

Breastfeeding — In some women, the size and shape of nipples and areolae can change permanently following pregnancy and nursing.

Changes over time — Nipple appearance is not necessarily constant throughout your lifetime. Men or women who experience a dramatic change in the prominence of the nipples can feel especially sensitive about their appearance. There are many variations of nipple prominence, including inverted nipples, puffiness of the nipples, enlarged areolae or even multiple nipples.

Overly prominent nipples and areolae can be corrected surgically. Sometimes, if nipple prominence is the result of surplus fatty tissue, Dr. Placik may use liposuction to reduce puffiness. In men, this may require gynecomastia surgery. Some women complain about the size of the areola which may be reduced in diameter using a circumareolar (donut) approach. In other cases, the nipple itself will be modified. Nipple reduction can be performed simultaneously with a breast augmentation, breast reduction or breast lift, or as part of surgery to correct breast asymmetry or tuberous breasts.

Dr. Otto J. Placik

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Placik can help you look your best. See why you should choose him for your cosmetic procedure.

Nipple Reduction FAQs

Am I a candidate for plastic surgery to reduce my nipple size?

If your nipples lead to enough embarrassment to interfere with your sexual relationships, then you may be a candidate for a cosmetic solution to address your nipple prominence. Either men or women who are in good general physical and mental health may be candidates for nipple reduction surgery.

Can nipple appearance change over time?

Yes. In fact, most people will experience a change in they way their nipples look over their lifetime, either as a result of hormone levels, weight fluctuation or other physical changes. The changes in nipple size, shape or color can detract from your overall breast appearance, or the aesthetics of the male chest.

Why have my nipples not returned to their previous appearance since breastfeeding?

While many women are fortunate enough to have their nipple appearance return to normal after breastfeeding, occasionally nipple shape irrevocably changes before or after weaning. This is due to damage or scarring of the milk ducts during breastfeeding.

What surgical solutions are available to change nipple shape?

Surgical options for nipple reduction typically include the removal of excess nipple tissue. However, nipples can also be reduced during breast augmentation, breast reduction or a breast lift. For men, nipple reduction can be included as part of treatment for gynecomastia, or enlarged male breasts.

How much does nipple reduction surgery cost?

The price of correcting overly prominent nipples will vary depending on a variety of factors, such as the level of correction that Dr. Placik recommends and whether the reduction is being performed in combination with another breast enhancement surgery. Dr. Placik and his staff strive to provide excellent value and can help you with cosmetic surgery financing to make your procedure

What are the risks?

The risks associated with nipple reduction are typically minor, and include asymmetry, infection and not being able to breastfeed. Although in most patients, nipple sensation can be preserved, loss of sensitivity is a less rare but possible complication.

Video Testimonials

See what our many happy patients have to say about their experience with Dr. Placik.

Dr. Placik promises you his best possible care and attention. If you would like to schedule a private consultation to learn more about nipple reduction surgery, please contact us online or call us at 847-398-1660.